KBIS Preview: Promising New Appliances at the Virtual Expo

By Alan Wolf, YSN

For the major appliance industry, the annual Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (KBIS) is the premier coming out party for the latest and greatest in kitchen and laundry. Here’s a sneak peek at a few of the hot new product launches slated for this year’s virtual event, which runs Feb. 9-12, concurrent with the International Builders’ Show (IBS). Click here to register.

BlueStar

The 140-year-old Pennsylvania vendor is expected to introduce a line of fully integrated refrigeration products. Its panel-ready refrigerator and freezer can seamlessly integrate into cabinetry, or customers can choose from one of more than 1,000 colors and 10 metal trims to achieve a flexible, bespoke design. The 30-inch refrigerator, paired with either a 30- or 18-inch freezer, delivers uniform and precise temperature control, the company said, ensuring optimal food preservation. Professional-grade elements include durable stainless steel and plastic-free glass interiors; full-extension drawers for ideal storage and visibility; and a pull-out tray that fits a sheet pan for easy food prep.

Fisher & Paykel

Haier’s upscale New Zealand subsidiary will introduce the 10th generation of its pioneering dishwashing drawer, which it first brought to market in 1997. The new Series 11 DishDrawer will be available with a stainless steel or integrated panel exterior and is designed to seamlessly fit into any kitchen. Features include eight powerful wash programs; a knock-to-pause mechanism; stainless-steel interior; a new wash-sensing spray arm; half-load options for energy and water savings; and Wi-Fi capabilities for an enhanced user experience. Offered in double or single models, the Series 11 provides flexibility and class-leading technology for perfect results, F&P said, further enhancing the way consumers wash their dishes.

Monogram

The super-premium GE brand will bow a completely re-designed professional range under the Statement Collection banner. Offered in both dual-fuel and all-gas models, the new Statement ranges and cooktops feature luxury elements like brass accents, durable high-end materials, colorized nighttime lighting in the LED-backlit knobs, and solid brass blades that are integrated into the design. The platform also boasts Monogram’s exclusive TrueTemp burner, described as the first gas burner to set and hold an exact temperature with induction-like performance. The ranges are Wi-Fi and Bluetooth capable and offer Hot Air Fry and Precision Oven modes, which can all be controlled from a seven-inch articulating front touch screen or remotely via a SmartHQ app.

Thor Kitchen

The competitively-price premium brand and recent BrandSource vendor partner will showcase its Professional Drop-In gas cooktops, available in 30- and 36-inch sizes. Premium features like high-intensity 18,000 Btu burners provide powerful performance, Thor said, while their clean lines, minimal curves and built-in aesthetic can complement any modern kitchen space. Other design elements include metal knobs with striking blue illumination while in operation, and top-of-the-unit positioning for hazard-free access when controlling flame settings. The cooktops also feature a single one-piece spill tray for easy cleanup, and a rustproof stainless-steel finish that can withstand heavy scrubbing.

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